In defense of college

By “indoctrination,” Santorum makes reference to the common notion that attending a college or university makes students more likely to adopt liberal ideologies at the expense of former conservatism. However, there is no evidence to suggest that any shift toward a more liberal ideology occurs. Furthermore, even if a shift in political ideology occurs, it is not the result of malicious machinations on the part of universities. A change in political ideology is more likely the result of a student’s engagement with new ideas and the discourse available at a university.

This discourse is at the heart of the university system. For centuries, the challenging of beliefs and the beliefs of others has been praised as one of the most important processes of self-development. Many colleges and universities, including Princeton, introduce classes that are comprised of different experiences and outlooks, and with this diversity, comes the ability to discuss one’s opinions in a heterogeneous setting. It’s likely that this continuous run-in with varying perspectives can have an affect on certain students, but where Santorum sees indoctrination, really there is personal growth.

Higher education provides undeniable advantages. Just because perspectives may or may not be changed along the way does not give grounds for devaluing the entire experience. Not only have students been taught to formulate and defend beliefs, they have greater access to opportunities. If greater knowledge is not enough of a reason to support higher education, the financial benefits of a college degree in America provide more support. While a four-year institution may not be for everyone, there are many options such as technical and trade schools as well as community colleges that provide an appropriate fit for students. The inherent benefits that come with higher education should not be undermined by any supposed corruption or indoctrination.

Santorum’s criticism does not merely lie in this idea of moral and philosophical corruption, but extends to the idea that colleges, namely Ivy League and similar institutions, breed elitism, smugness and liberal belief systems. There is not space on this page even to summarize the dialogue that surrounds elitism. However, we can note that as Princeton students receiving a well rounded, liberal arts education that is highly revered, we must realize that these generalizations and stereotypes exist. We must identify the bad parts of these stereotypes and endeavor not to perpetuate them.

The college experience should stimulate and cultivate minds. To devalue college education on the misguided premise that it supports liberal “indoctrination” undermines the values and advantages that come from the experience. Political rhetoric should not discourage the pursuit of higher education.